Curator’s statement
Matera, Italy… breathtaking. I am always on the hunt for hidden gems in every city I visit, but never did I expect to find an entire city I’d consider one. No photo can fully capture the essence of Matera—it is a place that has to be felt. There’s a quiet sophistication here, a kind of beauty that is both ancient and enduring. From its deeply rooted history to its well-earned designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Matera feels like stepping back in time. It’s no surprise that The Passion of the Christ was filmed here—the city truly evokes the biblical era. Matera is the only place I’ve visited that has left me genuinely speechless. The beauty, the history, the culture, the food, the wine, the architecture—it’s all unforgettable. When I booked a full week in Matera, I worried it might be too long. Oh, how wrong I was. From hiking across the caves of the Murgia plateau to discovering cozy mom-and-pop trattorias, from quiet mornings sipping coffee to golden-hour views outside my hotel—I found myself daydreaming about a vacation home here.
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Things to do travel to Matera
The caves of the Murgia plateau
Hiking to the caves in the Sassi.
Exploring the nooks and crannies of the town—make sure to have some good walking shoes as there are lots of stairs and cobblestone.
Visit Casa Grotta nei Sassi di Matera to get a glimpse into how people used to live in the caves.
For a deeper dive into the history of Matera—take a walking tour.
Have a glass of wine and enjoy the views.
Tour the churches and see centuries-old frescoes and paintings. Don’t miss the Chiesa di Santa Maria de Idris and the Crypt of the Original Sin.
Do a wine tasting and try the region’s unique bread baked in wood-fired ovens.
Visit Murgia Timone viewpoint for an unreal panorama.
Places to eat & drink travel to Matera
View From Crialoss, Panoramic Cave, Cafe Bistrot
Pasteggiando Bar U’ Ciddar: The way of Pasta-Incredible homemade pasta, fast-food style. They also make a great spritz! Perfect Lunch spot.
Brunch Bar U’ Ciddar: The best food I have eaten in Italy. Mom-and-pop trattoria restaurant.
Zipa café: perfect Ambiance with great cocktails and small bites
Trattoria del Caveoso: Beautiful cave restaurant with fantastic food!
Madame Giulia: Great food and beautiful ambiance
Area 8: cocktail bar with a quirky vibe and outdoor seating!
Need to know
Bring comfortable walking shoes; there are lots of stairs and cobblestone.
Cash is always king in Italy—make sure to have cash with you (euros).
Discover family-run trattorias for the best food! Many are in incredible locations like caves for the perfect ambiance.
Definitely taste the wine from the region!
Book early as Matera is slowly becoming discovered by tourists.
For more inspiration and personalized recommendations, visit our Matera page.
Travel Advisor
Jessica Molloy
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